: Delta Air Pilots Ratify New Contract With 34% Increase
Delta Air Pilots have officially ratified a new contract that includes a 34% pay increase over the span of four years. This is the first major labor agreement to be finalized since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. The contract was approved by 78% of the 15,000 pilots employed by the Atlanta-based airline.
John Laughter, Delta’s operations chief, said that the agreement “maintains us as a top destination for U.S. aviation careers”. The contract includes an 18% raise upon signing, followed by 5%, 4%, and 4% increases in subsequent years. Pay varies based on aircraft type and years of experience.
The pilot shortage has been a major issue for airlines since the pandemic began, limiting capacity growth and driving up airfares. Savanthi Syth, airline analyst at Raymond James, believes that pilots are taking advantage of the current situation. “They probably realize this is the best moment in time to get a deal done,” she said.
The new agreement at Delta may have an effect on negotiations at other major U.S. carriers. American Airlines said that the Delta deal “profoundly changes the economics for the entire industry” and that they look forward to reaching an agreement with their pilots soon. Alaska Airlines pilots received increases in their latest labor deal last year, while JetBlue Airways and Spirit Airlines have struck deals with their pilots recently. Regional airlines, where the pilot shortage has been most intense, have also hiked pay in recent months to attract and retain pilots.
Overall, the new contract at Delta Air will benefit their pilots and may also set a precedent for other major airlines. It is hoped that this will help to address the pilot shortage and improve air travel for everyone.